Be Careful” — Presidency Fires Back At Peter Obi

According to Ireporter Online, the Presidency has responded sharply to comments made by the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, over his criticism of the Federal Government’s decision to provide improved accommodation for judges under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Digital and New Media, O’tega Ogra, in a post on his handle, cautioned Obi against suggesting that the initiative was an attempt to compromise the judiciary. He defended the policy, insisting that better welfare for judicial officers is essential to safeguarding the independence and integrity of the justice system.

Ogra questioned Obi’s stance, referencing his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, during which similar housing projects for judges were reportedly implemented. He argued that such welfare provisions were consistent with good governance and should not be interpreted differently depending on who is in office.

He further maintained that poor living and working conditions for judges could expose them to undue pressure and manipulation, stressing that improving their welfare is necessary to strengthen the judiciary rather than weaken it.

He wrote that it was contradictory to support such initiatives in the past but criticize them in the present, adding that consistency should guide public commentary on governance issues. He also reiterated that adequate welfare for judicial officers remains a key factor in ensuring an independent and effective justice system.